Compressive and Energy Absorption Properties of Pyramidal Lattice Structures by Various Preparation Methods

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Mechanical Engineering
• Additive Manufacturing

Background:

• Metallic three-dimensional (3D) lattice structures offer high specific strength, mechanical efficiency, and energy absorption.
• These properties make them suitable for aerospace, transportation, and impact protection applications.
• Further understanding and optimization of their mechanical and energy absorption characteristics are needed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the mechanical properties and energy absorption of enhanced pyramidal metal lattice structures.
• To investigate the influence of different manufacturing methods on structural performance.
• To develop a theoretical framework for predicting the compressive strength, modulus, and absorbed energy of lattice structures.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of enhanced pyramidal lattice structures using 3D printing combined with investment casting and direct metal additive manufacturing.
• Theoretical analysis of compressive behavior and energy absorption via finite element simulation.
• Experimental verification of simulation results and structural performance.

Main Results:

• The 3D printing and investment casting method effectively eliminated stress fluctuations during plateau stages.
• Analysis of stress-strain behavior for varied lattice parameters identified optimal structural designs.
• A theoretical equation was established to predict the equivalent modulus and absorbed energy of the lattice structures.

Conclusions:

• The chosen fabrication method significantly influences the mechanical response of metal lattice structures.
• Optimized lattice designs and manufacturing processes can enhance mechanical efficiency and energy absorption.
• The developed theoretical equation provides a valuable tool for predicting lattice structure performance in engineering applications.